If you love bold flavors and cozy handheld meals, this Spiced Lamb Pitas with Feta Mint Sauce Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Tender, juicy ground lamb infused with aromatic spices finds its perfect match in a cool, tangy feta mint sauce, all wrapped up in a warm pita bread. This dish captures the vibrant charm of Mediterranean cuisine and transforms it into a quick, satisfying dinner that feels both special and effortless. Every bite marries savory richness with fresh, herbaceous notes, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to unlocking the full magic of this recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the fragrant spices that give the lamb its unforgettable warmth, to the creamy, refreshing feta mint sauce that balances the savory depth. These simple yet essential ingredients are easy to find and work together beautifully to create a dish bursting with texture and flavor.
- 1 pound ground lamb: The star protein, rich and flavorful, perfect for absorbing spices.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing, adds a subtle fruitiness and helps cook the aromatics.
- 1/4 cup white onion, finely diced: Provides sweetness and crunch that softens with cooking.
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced: Adds pungent depth, warming the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky, earthy undertone that’s irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon allspice: This warm spice adds complexity and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Infuses a gentle kick of heat without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Offers a subtle brightness and aromatic warmth.
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds fresh, sharp notes that complement the lamb.
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped plus extra for garnish: Brings cooling freshness and vibrant green color.
- 1/4 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped plus extra for garnish: Adds herbaceous brightness and color contrast.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Base for the creamy, tangy feta mint sauce.
- 1/2 cup fresh mint: Amplifies the herbal freshness in the sauce.
- 2 ounces feta cheese: Crumbled for salty richness and creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Introduces a pop of acidity to balance the sauce.
- 4 pitas: Soft, pocket-style bread perfect for stuffing and hand-held enjoyment.
- 1/2 cucumber, diced: Adds crunch and refreshing coolness.
- 1/2 tomato, diced: Provides juicy sweetness and bright color.
How to Make Spiced Lamb Pitas with Feta Mint Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Make the Feta Mint Sauce
Start by blending the sauce, which is where the magic happens in creating the cool, creamy counterpoint to the spiced lamb. Toss the Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, fresh mint, and lemon juice into a small food processor or blender. Pulse just until smooth and combined. This sauce is full of vibrant freshness with just enough tang to brighten every bite.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely diced onions and minced garlic. Cook these aromatic ingredients gently for about five minutes, stirring frequently, until they soften and become translucent but have not browned. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the lamb.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Lamb
Add the ground lamb to the pan with the softened onions and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and cooked through. This will take about 7 to 8 minutes. Allow the lamb to develop a nice sear while releasing its rich juices into the pan.
Step 4: Add the Spices and Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, allspice, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, kosher salt, and black pepper over the browned lamb. Stir vigorously to coat the meat evenly with the spices. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to toast and bloom the spices fully, which intensifies their flavor. Remove the pan from heat and fold in the chopped fresh mint and parsley, adding bursts of herbal brightness that perfectly complement the warmth of the spices.
Step 5: Assemble Your Pitas
Warm your pita pockets slightly to make them pliable and perfect for stuffing. Spoon generous portions of the spiced lamb mixture into each pita, then add diced cucumber and tomato for crunch and freshness. Drizzle the luscious feta mint sauce over the top and finish with extra mint and parsley as garnish. This final assembly step brings all the textures and flavors together for a truly delightful handheld meal.
How to Serve Spiced Lamb Pitas with Feta Mint Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
The dish shines with a scattering of fresh herbs like mint and parsley on top, which add brightness and an inviting appeal. You might also consider a few thin slices of red onion or a sprinkle of sumac for a tangy twist if you want to jazz things up visually and flavor-wise. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and intensify the flavor.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, serve the Spiced Lamb Pitas with Feta Mint Sauce Recipe alongside a crisp salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. Roasted vegetables like eggplant or carrots also pair wonderfully. For something heartier, a side of seasoned rice or couscous brings a satisfying, textural balance.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining or just want to impress, turn this recipe into a build-your-own pita bar. Lay out the spiced lamb, feta mint sauce, fresh veggies, and extra herbs separately so everyone can customize their pita. You can also serve the lamb over warm flatbreads instead of pitas or as a filling for lettuce wraps, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spiced lamb can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the feta mint sauce separate in a small container to preserve its freshness. This way, you can quickly reheat the lamb and reassemble your pitas whenever the mood strikes.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, the spiced lamb meat freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating. It’s best to make the feta mint sauce fresh each time for the brightest flavor, but you can freeze it too if needed.
Reheating
Reheat the lamb gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the meat juicy. The pita bread is best warmed separately in a toaster or oven to maintain its softness. Add fresh cucumber, tomato, and sauce just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of lamb?
Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or turkey can be great substitutes if lamb isn’t your favorite or you want something leaner. Just adjust the cooking times and seasoning slightly to suit the meat’s natural flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe has a gentle warmth from the red pepper flakes but isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
Is the feta mint sauce dairy-free?
Not as written—this sauce relies on Greek yogurt and feta cheese, both dairy products. To make a dairy-free version, you could try substituting plant-based yogurt and a vegan feta alternative, although the flavor will differ slightly.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Yes, you can prepare both the spiced lamb and feta mint sauce a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. When guests arrive, warm the lamb gently and assemble the pitas fresh for the best flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to warm pita bread?
Warming pitas in a dry skillet over medium heat for a minute per side works beautifully to make them soft and pliable. You can also wrap them in foil and warm them in a low oven, or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for 15-20 seconds.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Lamb Pitas with Feta Mint Sauce Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a world of vibrant flavors into your kitchen with minimal fuss. It’s comforting yet fresh, simple yet impressive, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again because few things beat that perfect balance of spiced lamb, cooling sauce, and fresh herbs all snuggled in soft pita bread.
Print
Spiced Lamb Pitas with Feta Mint Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Delicious and flavorful Spiced Lamb Pitas served with a creamy and refreshing Feta Mint Sauce. This quick and easy recipe combines ground lamb seasoned with warm spices and fresh herbs, complemented by crisp cucumbers and tomatoes, all wrapped in soft pita bread. Perfect for a satisfying and vibrant weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Spiced Lamb
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup white onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped plus more for garnish
For the Feta Mint Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 ounces feta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Additional Ingredients
- 4 pita breads
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 tomato, diced
Instructions
- Make the Feta Mint Sauce: Add the Greek yogurt, feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, and lemon juice to a small food processor or blender. Pulse the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare the Spiced Ground Lamb: Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened but not browned.
- Cook the Lamb: Add the ground lamb to the pan with the onions and garlic. Brown the lamb thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until fully cooked through.
- Season the Lamb: Stir in the smoked paprika, allspice, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything well to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped fresh mint and flat-leaf parsley. This adds a fresh, bright flavor to the spiced lamb mixture.
- Assemble the Pitas: To each pita bread, add a portion of the spiced lamb mixture, then top with diced cucumber and tomato. Drizzle generously with the feta mint sauce. Garnish with extra fresh mint and parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the lamb mixture.
- If you prefer, substitute ground beef or chicken for the lamb.
- The feta mint sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Warm the pita breads before assembling for a softer texture and enhanced flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a side of chopped salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
